Council Oks Renaming Community Center

NEWPORT NEWS — The City Council Tuesday night gave the final go-ahead for the renaming of the Midtown Community Center to Brittingham-Midtown Community Center.

The name change will honor former Mayor O.J. "Jerry" Brittingham Jr., who was the first mayor of Newport News after Warwick and Newport News merged in 1958.

FOR THE RECORD - Published correction ran Friday, May 30, 2008.A story in Wednesday's front section incorrectly stated that Newport News will celebrate the consolidation of Newport News and Warwick County this summer. Warwick County became a city in 1952. In 1958 the city of Warwick merged with the city of Newport News. (Text corrected.)

The city is planning to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the consolidation this summer and the renaming will be part of the ceremonies, said City Manager Randy Hildebrandt.

The city's Commemoration Advisory Commission last week unanimously recommended the name change, which for right now will only involve a $2,800 plaque to be made and installed at the center.

No other expenditures are planned, Hildebrandt said.

The name change will get implemented over the years as signage, marketing brochures, stationery, and other materials need reprinting or replacing.

The city's Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism had earlier estimated the immediate implementation could cost nearly $57,000. This would include changing the outside sign, which was installed last year and cost about $30,000. That sign will not be replaced in the near future.

"He fit the bill because he lived in Warwick, went to church in Warwick and had his business in Newport News," said Billie Millner, a local attorney and former councilman.

Millner served with Brittingham, calling him a "great inspiration."

"This (the renaming) is totally appropriate," Millner said. "It's just a nice thing to do."

Hildebrandt said Tuesday the city will upfront the money for the plaque, but private donations expected for the 50th anniversary of the consolidation will reimburse the city. So, far $200 has been raised.